Kilrush RNLI respond to report of child being swept out to sea

Kilrush RNLI volunteers along with Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 115 were tasked by Valentia Coast Guard to Beal Strand on the Kerry shore of the Shannon Estuary. The casualty, a young girl, was believed to have been swept out to sea due to strong wind and tides.

When Kilrush Lifeboat arrived on scene, Rescue 115 had located the casualty some distance from the shore and winched a crew member into the water to provide assistance. The casualty was in a distressed state and had ingested water. Kilrush RNLI volunteers took the casualty onboard the lifeboat, where she was assessed, before taking her to Beal Strand. The casualty was then taken by Rescue 115 to University Hospital Kerry in Tralee, as a precaution.

Kilrush RNLI lifeboat was stood down at 3.40pm and returned to station.

Charlie Glynn, Kilrush RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer said: 'Thankfully this rescue had a successful outcome and the young girl was reunited with her family. In advance of the June bank holiday we would urge anyone planning a visit to the coast to follow RNLI safety advice:

• Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations
• Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times
• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
• If boating, ensure your equipment is functioning and maintained
• In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

'As the current COVID-19 restrictions continue to apply, the RNLI are fully operational and on call 24/7. We ask everyone to follow Government travel instructions.'

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.